Frequently Asked Questions On Functional Frenuloplasty

August 13, 2024

Your active participation is important to the post-operative success of your treatment.

1) WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR A PATIENT WITH A TONGUE TIE? DOES IT HURT?

A functional frenuloplasty is a straightforward outpatient procedure that can be completed in office without the need for general anesthesia. If a release is recommended, the treatment takes less than an hour. Dr. Ankita will apply an effective topical anesthetic gel on the frenular tissue underneath the tongue prior to treatment, followed by an injection allowing for zero to minimal discomfort during the procedure. The anesthetic wears off approximately 60 minutes after the procedure is completed. For the first 5-6 days following surgery, mild pain is expected. This can usually be controlled with the help of some pain killers.

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2) ARE THERE ANY PRE-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS?

We encourage you to eat a full meal 1-2 hrs prior to your procedure. We also encourage you to be calm and get a good night’s sleep the night before the procedure.

3) WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

It is normal to experience some swelling and inflammation in the first 3-5 days after surgery. We recommend using some painkillers as and when needed for pain. We recommend rinsing with luke warm salt water and/or alcohol-free mouthwash several times a day to keep the wound clean and reduce the risk of infection. During the first few days, you may find it challenging to consume extremely hot or spicy foods, or foods that require a lot of chewing. We will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions at the time of your procedure.

4) IS MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY NECESSARY?

Pre- and post-operative myofunctional therapy is essential and critical for optimal recovery and success of the frenuloplasty procedure.

5) WILL SUTURES BE USED?

We use absorbable sutures that will usually fall off or dissolve on their own within 7-10 days after surgery. As the sutures fall out, a white diamond-shaped area may appear where the frenum was. This is normal and not an infection, rather, it is granulation healing tissue that will heal and disappear in approximately two weeks. You can use a soft toothbrush to remove any oral debris.